Daoism

Schools of Daoism (AKA Taoism)

1. Philosophical
Practice: studying the Daoist scriptures such as Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching and the writings of Chaung Tzu
Purpose: to connect with the universal life force that permeates all things

Tao Te Ching--Stan Rosenthal's Translation

2. Alchemical
Practice: meditation, qigong (breath exercises), and internal alchemy (energy exercises)
Purpose: to improve health and designed to transform the spiritual body into an immortal one for the afterlife

          Michael Winn's Healing Dao site
          Mantak Chia's Universal Tao site
          Marie Favorito's Healing Tao site

3. Martial
Practice: learning T'ai Chi Ch'uan, a martial art that embodies Daoist philosophy
Purpose: to improve health, self-defense, and spiritual awareness through moving meditation

T'ai Chi Ch'uan

4. Divination
Practice: studying the I Ching, numerology, astrology, Daoist Tarot
Purpose: to gain insight into one's current life, and to divine future events on your life path

I Ching Site

5. Magical/Religious
Practice: performing religious ceremonies and magical rituals
Purpose: to connect with Daoist deities and spirits and to invoke their power

Magical/Religious Taoism Site